Basic Fuel Types of Forklifts
Forklifts are powered lift trucks which are used in a wide variety of industries to move heavy materials and items. Forklifts are durable and reliable machines that are necessary tools in warehouse and construction settings. Forklift units vary depending on the type of work environment and the type of fuel which is used to power the lift truck.
Electricity
Electric forklifts are recommended for work sites that have limited ventilation because they make no exhaust fumes and are fairly quiet. They are designed to be powered by industrial-strength, large batteries. Since the electric forklift batteries must be charging, the worksite would require a charging station. The batteries are tough and could be re-charged up to 1,500 times before they need to be replaced. The charging station must be located in a ventilated area and include an emergency eyewash station and an acid spill kit.
Propane
Forklifts powered by liquid propane have several advantages over electric and diesel powered machines making them fairly common in warehouse and industrial environments. Propane engines are much cleaner compared to diesel-powered units. There is no down time needed to recharge an industrial battery, and the cost for propane is less than the cost of electricity. A lift truck propane tank can be refueled quickly and easily by changing out the empty tank with a full tank. Usually an off-site supplier refills the empty tank, making refueling very efficient and safe.
Gasoline and Gas
For rough terrain and outdoor applications, the diesel and gas forklifts are the machines of choice. These equipment are fairly common in lumber yards and on construction sites. Their disadvantages include odorous exhaust, fairly high fuel costs and fairly high maintenance requirements. Their benefits comprise reliability in tough conditions and a longer lifespan than other units. Gasoline and diesel units will need to be refueled at a supply station on site which meets safety and health policies.